Technical SETA - Synthetic Biologist, Biomanufacturing

Overview Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted. The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.SPA provides critical decision support to enabling and executing a strategy of technological superiority and enabling the delivery and sustainment of secure, resilient, and preeminent capabilities to the warfighter quickly and cost effectively. Our team of experienced military, technical, and operations research analysts is skilled in evaluating military problems, identifying the driving factors, devising innovative approaches, collecting applicable data, developing necessary software tools, and performing thorough and timely assessments to inform technology and acquisition governance decisions to ensure U.S. military forces retain military superiority in the future.We have an immediate need for a Technical SETA – Synthetic Biologist, Biomanufacturing to provide onsite support out of Arlington, VA. Responsibilities The candidate will provide foundational subject matter expertise and programmatic support to DARPA BTO Program Managers. Translate core synthetic biology, biomanufacturing, process scale-up, molecular biology, biochemistry, and microbiology concepts into technical oversight, progress evaluation, and performer management for cutting-edge biotechnology and biomanufacturing programs. Will translate core biophysical principles, structural biology concepts, and applied molecular modeling experience into technical oversight, progress evaluation, and performer management for cutting-edge synthetic biology. Qualifications Required:Masters degree in an Engineering or Science discipline10+ years of related work experience with maintaining systematic program data logs, database archives, and technical portfoliosStrong organization and communications skills, particularly in briefing preparation to present complex technology to senior leadershipExperience drafting high-quality technical content for program briefings, transition reports, and draft solicitation materials (such as Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs))Active Secret clearanceAbility to work in a team environmentAble to work fully onsite in Arlington, VADesired:PhD5+ years of experience providing technical and/or cost analysis3+ years of experience in a Research and Development organization/role Pay Range Information At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $150,000.00/Yr. - USD $180,000.00/Yr. Job SummaryID: 2026-23703Category: Engineering & Technical ServicesSecurity Clearance Requirement: SecretType: Regular Full-TimeLevel: Senior